"Other research has proven that flowers make people happy when they receive them," said Nancy Etcoff, Ph.D., of Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School.

"What we didn't know is that spending a few days with flowers in the home can affect a wide variety of feelings."

After a few days of having fresh-cut flowers in their home, participants felt "less negative". Other benefits included feeling more compassionate towards others, as well as extra energy, happiness, and enthusiasm for work.

Keeping your home stocked with blooms doesn't necessarily mean a trip to the florist, either. A cheap bunch from your local supermarket or picking some from the garden will have the same positive effect.